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/.A' FIVE ACTS, 

Willi new and beautiful Music, Songs, Choruses, Tableaux, 

etc., etc. 



BY 



m^or. or. sikitTOii, 



AUTHOR OF 



Harry Allen, the Union Spy,''"' '■'Ellen Douglas,^'' ^'- Stratagem,'^ 
^'Hip Van Winkle,^'' etc., etc. 



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J^VA-^ve^. , ^ 0, O 






PRINTED, BUT NOT PUBLISHED, 1875. 



A^'d 



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DKAMATIS PERSONS. 



Count Stkalenheim, 

FniLip Mkissen, 

Albert Stralenheim, 

Frederick William, 

Prince Bismark, 

Captain Wallenstein, 

Leon, 

Homer, 

Officers of the Guaim), 

Genevieve, - 

Madam Meissen, 

Lady Gertrude, 

Ernestine, 

Cecelia, 



Col. of the 65th. 

Sergt. of the Both. 

Son of Counts. 

Emperor of Germany. 

Prime Minister, 

Capt. of the 65th. 

Servant to Count Stralenheira. 

Page to the Emperor. 

Ward of Madam Meissen. 



Wife of Count Stralenheira. 
Eldest daughter of Count Stralenheim. 
Younger daughter of Count Stralenheira 
Ladies and Gentlemen. 
Soldiers, etc., etc. 
German. 
Costume : Dress of the j)eriod of 1872. 



tro THCE :b>tj:h:LjXO. 



Entered according to act of Congress in the year 1S75, by 
"■*. Joseph Barton, in the office of the Librarian of Conarres.s, 



DISGRACED OE THE BROKEF SWORD. 



ACT I. 

Scene I. — Interrior of 3fadam Meissen, s cottage, cupboard near 
— L. u. E. Latticed door and window in Flat. — Stand, with tcork 
basket upon it. — Bird ca(je suspended in windoi/J. — Arm chair, 
lounge and four chairs — Spinnin;/ wheel near open doorivny.— 
Genevieve discovered spinning, and singing as curl n in vines.- 
Madam Meissens discovered in arm chair sle^nng. 

MUSIC. 
Genevieve's soifG. 
A maiden sat at her busy wheels 

Her heart was light and free, 
And ever in cheerful song burst forti) 

Her bosom's harmless glee. 
Her song was in mocker}' of love> 

And often I heard her say, 
The gathered rose, and the broken heart. 

Had charmed but for a day, &c. 

[ looked on the maiden's rosy cheek., 

And her eye so clear and bright. 
And I sighed to think that the traitor lovcv 

Should conquer a heart so light. 
She thought not of future days of woe, 

As she carrolled in tones so ga}'. 
That the gathered rose and the broken hearty 

Could charm but for a da3% &c. 



6 disgraced; ok, the beoken sword. [act i. 

Philip. [Entering door in fiat.) All! my little^, losebuu, I've 
been lii-.tenit)i>' to your heixiitifiil son^' until I'm almost charmed. 

Madam M. [Awaking and rubbing her eyes.) Wh^', Philip; 
you here? we didn't expect you again to-day. 

Philip. Yes, yes sister; I had a little leisure, and thought both 
of you would be so delighted to ^i^e me. [Philip drops coolly into 
the arm chair., and thrown liis .^word o)i thejioor. 

JMadam JVI., exits l. h. 

Philip. [Ironically.) How proud yoii have grown girl. Gene- 
VXEVK, why do you djspise maV b.H'auso I am not rich, am noth- 
ing but a pool- subaltern, and do not belon;^ to the nobility. 

Genetueoe. Do /.balong to the nobility? 

Philip. Not yet, but hope soon to do so. Its rather singular 
girl. What a strange fancy your family have for the name of 
Sti'al-eu-heim. Your mother allowed her vanity [and perhaps her 
heart) to be touched for a certain Ca[)tain Stral-cn-heim, an J' 
now its your time to be smitten' with the mime. I should advise 
you, my girl, to have a care least yoi/.r mother's fate overtake 
you. Her n'oble captain abandoned her at Dresden, where sh3 
stood t!ie chances of starving. But she was glad enough to get 
back home again. "^ 

Gen. Sergeant Meissen, you are of the opinion that I dislikj 
you, and you are right. You are a bold, wicked man, and have 
dared to }>rofane the spotless name of the man I love, and in 
speaking of my p(»or dead mot'ier in such terms, you vilify the 
dead. If, in a helpless hour she fell, she more than expiated tli3 
wrong she inflicted upon me. I knew her goodness and her ex- 
nmplary life. Knew with what bitter tears she wiped out the 
stain of her erring sin. At least, she never harmed you. 8he 
was too g'ood, to wish evil even to her worst enemy. But it is 
not enough that your venomous tongue must throw its slander 
over her and me. Y'^our base ingratitude must also seek to tra- 
duce the family of the noble Count Stral-en-heim — your chief an 1 
benefactor. 

Philip. Ha! Ha! Ha! My benefactor. Will you please havj 
the goodness and kindness to name any favor I have ever receive I 
at his hands? 

'Enter Madam M. l. h. with tray of fowl, salad and bottle of wine, 
which she places on the stand. 

Madam 31. There, Philip; try and make yourself comfort- 
able, and drop this unpleasant conversation. 

Philip. I will Madeline. Thank you, thank you. (Drinks ) 
Madeline, I'm proud of jou. (Drinks). Now, my pretty Gen 



/^ 



ACT I.] disgeaced: or, the bhoken sword. 7 

evieve, will you please be kind enouf>h to enumerate the bounties 
I am indebted to the nolile Coionel lor? 1 think it would jnizzle 
\-ou. 

Madam M. Yes, Philip, that's very true, that's very true — 
and as much as I respect Ihe Colonel, I think he raiuht have i)ro- 
moted you long ago to the rank of Captain, or Lieutenant at 
least. 

Philip. Madeline, you are right, I have been thirty years in 
the King's servjce, and am not I entitled to preferment ovei- many 
who have already receiA"ed it? 

Gen. That is all very likely, sir; but you must remember tliat 
you have only been a few months in his regiment. 

Philip. It must, and it shall come. 

Iladam 3f. Yes, Pliilip, and it icill surely come, — then how 
proud / shall be, to have a Captain or a Lieutenant for my 
brother-in law. I shall then learn to lean on your arm; and be 
equal to any of our fine ladies. 

[Business for i\L\r)AM M.) 

Philip. Thank you, thank you, Madeline, for your many kind 
wishes, and for the interest you manifest in my behalf. When 
I am greats you shall not be forgotten. 

Mad<\m M. Philip, now, don't say another word about that, 
you deserve promotion — you are a valient soldier, and would make 
such a charming Captain. 

Philip. You may take my word for it Madeline, that before 
man}' days and i)erhaps hours, Count Stral-en helm, will have 
become my benefactor in good earnest. 

Uxit Madam M. r. h. 

Ge7i. I feel assured, sir, that he would readily pertorm an}' 
act of kindness towards you, consi'^tant with his duty. 

Philip. Yes, he is the Colonel of the Iron 65th, the Em- 
peror's body guard, a close and intimate friend and adviser; 
and he has unbounded influence with him. What then is there 
to prevent my i^romotion? 

Gen. His sense of justice toward other subalterns of longer 
standing, than yourself, may possibh' be the reason of his with 
holding your advancement. 

Philip. Perhaps so, but you will soon see, what we can do. 

Gen. Whom do you mean by toe? 

Philip. Oh; don't be alarmed, my girl, 'tis quite simple 
You know you are engaged to the Colonel's onl}^ son, and you 
will not surely refuse to do a good turn for an old soldier, espe 

all}' as he happens to be a distant relative. 



disgraced; or, the broken swohd. [act i. 

Gen. [Rising.) I beg of you once for all, sir, to be more re 
served in your languMge toward me. It is true that Albert 8tral 
t'U heim is my affijineed lover, and in spite of my low station, his 
intentions are pure and honorable. Na^', were tiiey not, 1 would 
reject them without a pang. In the broad face of day he sought 
uiy maiden love. His affection for me, is disinterested and un 
tainted by one sinful thought, notwithstanding the distance that 
I'xists between us. 

Philip. Ha! ha! ha! That's capital. 

Gen. Wherefore that unmeaning laugh, man? 

Philip. You girls are all alike. Pretty and vain while youth 
lasts, when that fades ,you grow bitter and jealous. You have 
not the slightest idea what queer pranks Dame Fortune plays on 
her see-saw. Up and down, up and down, and — away you go 
— ^into the mire. 

Ge7i. It is you who are envious and bitter, despicably so to 
ine. But I have his ])rouiise that bofore two days have passed 
he will not only acknowh^dge me before the world as his affianced 
wife, but his father will consent to our union. 

J'hilip. I I'ather think he'll find it hard to obtain his consent. 

Ge7i. Why should he? 

Philip. I was niistakeiied. The haughty family of Count 
Stral-en-heim will feel ))roud and honored to receive the daugh 

ter of , well, no matter who. As sure as you are of sue 

cess, Genevieve, I am even more so of mine. I have only to 
pronounce one word, one little, insignificant word, and the road to 
my honors, the pathway to fame and fortune, lies clear and open 
before me. 

Gen. Indeed, 'tis very strange 3'ou have never uttei'ed this 
sentiment before. 

Philip. I bide ray time cliild, but it is fast approaching — 
OA'ery minute brings my long coveted prize closer and closer to 
my grasp. Before to morrow's sunset, I shall wear a Lieuten 
ant's eapulettes in the G5th. What say you to that, eh? 
(Enter Mav>am M. r. u. k.) 

Gen. If you merit thern, and the distinction, I hoi)e you may 
get them. You have my good wishes. 

Philip. If there is nothing preventing your becoming the 
laughter-in-law of the noble Count; surely there is far less to 
()revent a soldier of thirt}' years service, from becoming a 
Lieutenant. 

Gen. Am I to understand, sir; that you me<iitate making my 
relationship to you, a stepping stone to your promotion? 



!•] disoiiaoid: or, the broken sword. 



Philip. Why, what a memory you have chiid.'^ Did |;I not toll 
you a minute since, that 1 had to spenk but one little wo'rd. Ah, 
you don't know what a goklcu key 1 carry about me. 

(Albeut approaches the lattice v:indow andlooks in.) 

Gen. llinnk heaven he is here. 

1 'hi lip. AVhoV 

6'e*?. Albert Stralenheim! Now, sir, speak your boastinij; 
uords to him, and hear how lie will answer them. 

Philip. 1 have no occasion or desire to enter into a contro 
vcrsy with him. So I will not remain longer — for my xjresenee 
may interrupt yo^t,. ^Madeline show me the doorway and 1 will 
reti-eat. 

Madam M. Had you m)t bettor remain^ you have nothing to 
fear from him. 

Philip. Fear! I have no fears of him. Whilst the son re 
maims svith you. I will seek the father, and M'e shall see, who 
will consumate their schemes first, you or I. Adieu! Adieu! 

Jf^xit Philip and Mai>am, l. u. e. 

A Ihert. ( Entering door in flat, approaches Gknevikvk and kissea 
her.) Can you guess my dear, Genevieve, whv I have come to 
visit you thus eai'ly? 

Gen. I know dear, Albert, that 3'ou have some grand scheme 
u your nund, and before 3'ou put it iu execution you wish to 
ronsult me. 

Albert. Yes, darling, you have guessed rightly, and should 
I pucc-eed, it will open to me a career of inde])end3nce and use- 
lullness. If I possess the proper talents, the position which the 
Kmperm- has alm05t prom".s;Hl to confer ui»ou me, will give me a 
genial sphere of action. 

Gen. Oh, what position can it be, Albert? 

Albert. Private Secretary to his highness. I am to have an 
interview with him this very day. At least, I have solicited one. 
and if he consents, I shall urge him to grant n\e Isis long prom 
ised appointment forthwith, and then 



[Embraces Genevieve.) 



Gen. Yes, Albert, and then 



Albert. I shall disoel for ever your fears, dearest, and fulfill 
my ])romise to you. Then I shall ask at once my parents bless 
ing on our love. 

(Kis.ses Gknevikvl. ) 



10 disgkaced; oh, the bhoken s\AOEr». [act i. 



Nay, nay, fear not, although my father is of noble lineage, he 
is likewise a man, wliose soul is filled with human sympathies. 
His long career of usefulness has been distinguished b}- undevi- 
ating rectitude, and all who know him, praise him, and esteem 
him. You would wrong iiim Genevieve, if for one moment you 
believe that to me, liis only son, he would act unjustly'. Believe 
me, he could not. 

Oen. I only fear, Albert, least he should doubt the purity of 
my affection. Attributing it to a vain, selfish pride. It may 
seem very weak, very foolish, perchance, Ijut I often wish that 
3"ou like m3'self, were poor and humble. 

Albert. Were it so, our mutual love could not be greater. 
Even were I seated on the German throne, I could not feel a 
pride more honest in raising you to share that lofty station with 
me. Man, however powerful, need never blush to honor inno- 
cence and virtue. Our love is not of to-day, neither will it fade 
to-morrow. No, no Genevieve, it will bless and brighten a long 
future. But, dear Genevieve, I must be gone. I heard my father 
say that the Emperor would review the 65th in person about this 
hour, I shall watch his departure from the ground and then 
seek an audience. Farewell dearest, farewell. 1 feel assured of 
success, because your prayers will follow me. 

Gen. Yes, my inmost heartfelt pra^ ers. 

Albert. I will return in the evening, until then good bye dar 
ling, good bye. 

(Albert kisses her and exits hurriedly through door in flat. Gen- 
evieve seats herself at her spinning wheel, and commences 
singing. ) 

SONG, 

A year passed by, and again I stood 

B^' that humble cottage door. 
The maid had forgotten her early song, 

And her heart was light no more. 
The big tear stood in her down cast eye, 

And sighing I heard her say. 
That the gathered rose and the stolen heart, 

Could charm but for a day. 

And the gathered rose, &c. 

Ah, well I knew what had dimmed her eye 

And made her cheek so pale. 
The maid had forgotten her early song, 

And listened to love's sweet tale, 



ACT I.] disgraced; ok, the bkokex sword. 11 

She had drank of the sweets of its [ oisened cup, 

It liad wasted her life away, 
And the gathered rose and the stolen heart, 

Had charmed but for a day. 

And the gathered rose, &c. 

[Enter Madam M., l. h., icho approaches Genevieve.) 

3fadam 31. My child, yoii behave very strangely of late. 

Gen. Do I, mother? 

31adam J/. Why have you taken such a dislike to Philip? 

Gen. Because, mother, I believe him to be a had man. But 
do not let us talk of him. I have something to fell you that will 
please you better. I know ^'our anxious love for me. Know 
how you show it in ten thousand ways. Since I was left an or- 
phan child, to 3'our protection. So come sit by me mother, and 
share your daughter's happiness, and I will tell 3'ou all. 

(Madeline seats fierself in a rtn chair, and Genevieve drops on 
stool at her mother s feet. Picture.) 

Sc^ENE II. — Landscape or (/arden, in one. — Enter Philip, l. i. e. 

— Solus. 

Philip. I have watched his movements, scrutinized his eA"ery 
action and features, and cannot be mistaken. He must be the 
man. This is a strange and eventful world, and what strange, 
curious pranks does fickle fortune play. To-day we grovel in 
poverty and wretchedness. To-morrow, we are exalted to posi- 
tion, wealth, and honor, no matter what means or ends we em- 
ploy; if it only be attained. For years have I waited for this 
hour to come. I am like the famished tiger that springs upon 
his long coveted prey, and will not release my grasp, until my 
hungry cravings are satisfied. How little does his lordship 
dream, that I possess the dread secret of his life. My silence 
must be purchased, and at my own price. I will seek an inter 
view with him, and my demands must be recognized. If re 
fused — the world shall know, that empty honor, and titles of 
nobility when purchased by crime and falsehood, are but baw- 
bles, which the slightest breath, even of the vilest slave, when 
tainted with the shadow of truthfulness, can scatter to the 
winds of Heaven. 

Exit Philip, r. i. e. 

MUSIC. 



12 disgraced; or, the bpoken sword. [act i, 

Scene III. — Street or v^ood. — Troops enter l. i. e., cmd go t.hroiKjh 
such evolutions as they are best drilled in, clositir/ irith paradi 
rest. — Music, Iluil to the Chief. 

Col. Attention, Batallion I Shoulder, Arms! 
(Esu'ERoii and Staff enter, l. i. e.) 

Emperor. Colone"', pass your rejrimont in review. 

Col. Attention, Batallion! Shoulder, Arms! c'ec., (fee. 

Exit h. I. E. 
ORAND ALLEGORICAL TABLEAUX, 
"THE WATCH ON THE KHINE." 
M USIC CU HTA IN. 



ACT 11. 

Scene i. — -Elegant drawhuf-roo^n in Stralenhemi 3Iansion. — Ta- 
ble, chairs, piano, sofa, cfcc, cfcc. — Lady Gektkude discovered 
seated 071 sofa. — Ernsteine and Cecelia discovered sta?} din ff near 
hay window, c. busily enrjaged in arranging flotoers in vcszs. 

Lady Gertrude. Yes, indeed, they will shed anotiier halo 
aruuiid my jireatness, another branch rising above the proud 
trunk of my genealogical tree, that even now has grown so 
mighty that few there are who can presume to look so high. In 
another .month we shall celebrate Ernstine's birthday, and before 
her twentieth summer dawns upon her, she will be the Countess 
Stienberg. She will })e hapi)y then. The young Count loves her, 
and that is a sweet omen for her future. 

[Enter dm's.T Stralexheim in full ColoneVs loiiform, l. n., who 
lays aside his chajjeau, sword, belt, tfcc, and falls on sofa as if 
exhausted — all hasten to him.) 

Lady G. Wh}^ Count, what is the matter, how pale you look? 

[Business.) 

Count. Oh, 'tis nothing Gertrude, really nothing. The heat 
was so ODpressive on parade, and it has made me rather faint. 
There; I'm better now. 

Ernestine. [Taking a bottle from -work-box.) Father, let me 
sprinkle a few drops of this cologne on your forehead. 

Count. No, no my child. It is my heart that requires a puri- 
fying essence. But I have joyful news for you Ernestine. 

Ernestine. For me, father? 

Count. Yes, child, for you. The Emperor informed me to- 
day, that Count Stienberg's diplomatic mission was ended, and 
that we might daily expect his return. 



14 disgraced; Ou, the bkoken savoi;d. [actii. 

Cecelid, But lathoi", do you tliink h^ u'iil returu heartwhole. 
Oh, if he shouhi come bac-k raithUss, 

Lady G. Pshaw, child — stop yonr jesting-. It is joyful news 
indeed, Ernestine was pining in despair, least the young Count 
should not return iu time to be present at her birthday fete. 
(Laoy Gkktkudk, E.RNLSTINK mixl Cccti-iA retire tip ^tage to win 
do'W and exit, k, h.) 

€ovnt. [Aside.) Yes, they are happy; who can look upon 
them and doubt it? Everywhere I breath the ^itmosphere of 
ease and brightness. 'Tis only within that I taste the Dead Sea 
fruit of the bitter past, 

[Enter Lady (t,, k, ik) 

Lady G. [Ap2Jroaching Count.) Did the Emperor converse 
long with you to-day, Count? 

Count. Yes, Gertrude, he did, and very graciously too. He 
is an excellent man. Aflfable to all, and especially so to me. 

Lady G. But, Count, you fully merit his esteem and confi- 
dence, and throughout j-our long service you. have been most 
zealous in your duty. 

Count. Ah, Gertrude; but fev,- can boast that at evciy period 
of their lives they have conscientiously discharged their .duty. 

Lady G. Count, you are too severe. If we can condemn our 
selves for trifling errors, why may not our well merited virtuts. 
equally' claim our praise? 

Count. Gertrude, say no more. In God's hands alone rests 
the unerring balance of justice. I am never so happy as when 
you are seated beside me. In your love and that of our children, 
I feel the rich blessing of Heaven. 

Lady G. Yes, aud I can only hope that our darlings future 
may be as cloudless as our past has been. Ernestine will soon 
bless with her hand a noble husband, and Cecelia, I am sure will 
not remain long droo|ting upon the parent tree. 

Count And don't forget wife, that our noble son will soon be 
exalted to a position most flattei-ing to a fiither's lieart. 

Lady G. But, Count, I feel somewhat surprised that Albert 
h:is not ere this received his appointment. 

Count. There is nothing to fear witli his brilliant talents, he 
cannot fail of success. 

Lady G. Heaven grant it. 

Count. There is nothing to prevent it, he has been trained 
beneath my care. I can answer for him, as for myself. 

[ExifLkOY G., L.H. Enter Albert, r. il) 



ACT n,] cisgkaced; oh, thk bi:okin sword. 15- 



Count. Why, ni,y boy, yon seem annoyed. (Has any one 
dared.) I mean Albert, what is it that has vexed you? 

Albert. Father, I am standing- on equivocal ground, as re- 
gards the Emperor, 

(Falls into chair.) 

Count, How so, my boy? 

Albert. When he left parade this evening, I followed him to 
the \ alic^. Saw him enter, and when I presented myself for the 
purj ose or' obtaining- an interview, his chamberlain told me that 
his highness desired to be alone. 

Count, Pshaw! boy you are too impatient, 3'ou will receive 
your appointment in due ti)ne — and that will be another laurel 
to my crown. Fortune, power and dignity, will all belong to me 
and my son. And then Albert, one wish only will remain 
ungratificd. 

Albert. One wish, Father? 

Count. Yes; to see you married. 

Albert. Married? 

Count. Aye, my son, there are many beauteous flowers of 
noble growth in the courtly circles of Emperor William — some 
one of them no doubt would suit your taste. 

Albert. Father, marriage is not a mere matter of taste. 1 
have been educated to believe that marriage should only follow 
the deep abiding love of the heart. 

Count. My boy, come nearer to me; be seated. It is not this 
particidar lady, not that my wishes, or your mother's point to. 
But let me suggest some one to you, my boy. What objection 
can you raise against the beautiful and accomplished Countess 
Waldenl>erg? 

Albert. I have a fatal one, father. 

Count. Indeed! What is it? 

Albert. I love another. 

Count. Another! Who is she? 

Albert. Father, {Takes the Coui^t's hand,) listen. I know 
that you love me, and that yon f-re most just and kind. You 
also have my welfare at heart, and therefore will not reject the 
choice I have already made, even though it may not harmonize 
with your wishes. 

Count. Who is the lady? 

Albert. A young girl, poor but perfect in every virtue, and 
with a face and form of excjuisite loveliness. 

Count. Of noble family? 

Albert. No, she is of humble parentage. 



16 disgraced; or, the broken sword. ]act ii. 

Count. {Risin'j.) 'J'lieii you must at once renounce and for- 
get her. I have no wish th:it you should marry whore yon do 
not love, I will not consent to your union with a low l)orn girl. 

Albert. Father, your kindness shines forth, in saying that 
you have no wish to force rae into a heartless marringe; but let 
me implore you to pause ere you interpose your final decision 
upon a step that is fraught with weal or woe to me. 

Count. My son, you possess ideas relar.ive to the social con- 
ditions of life which do not harmonize with mine; but I tell you 
now, (and receive my words as final, for I am as infiexible as 
fate upon the point in question,) that unless you nuirry one 
whose birth and position are equal to your own, my attection and 
my home will be forever closed against you. If you are bent 
on incurring my displeasure, you will wed this girl. Do so, and 
frou) that hour I am without ;i son. 

(Count, risltKj as if to go.) 

Albert. Styy, father. 

Count. For whatV 

Albert. That 1 may crush (Kit this false pride, that rises like 
a hideous spectre betvveen us. 

Count. {IncUgnantlij.) Know your station, sir; you are speak 
ing to Count Stralenheim. 

Albert. 1 know, sir; but I also thougiit I was speaking to my 
father. Your pardon, sir. 1 will not ott'end again. 

(^ Enter Lkon, l. i. e. ) 

Leon. Sergeant IMeissen Sends compliments roid requests an 
audience with his Colonel, Count Stralenheim. 

[ Business. ) 

Count. Tell him Leon, that I will see him presently. (To 
Albert.) Our interview is for the present at an end; but I trv,st 
when we meet again, yon vv^ill have seen j'our error; if so my si- 
lence and pardon are insured. 

{Exit Albert, u. i. k., bowing. Leon exits l. i. e. ) 

so MIS. 

Count. How strange it is that this man came to enter my 
regiment. Whenever 1 meet him I feel myself cower beneath 
his searching glance. Although his u.-une is unknown to me, yet 
his features are not altogether unfamiliar. It is the infiexible 
justice of heaven thjit has set him on m^' track, or a moi'king 



ACT II.] disgraced; or, the broken sword. 17 

demon that gosds me by a false resemblai ^e. Has m^- life been 
prolonged but for tiiis? Must the edifices which has taken me 
years to real', be crumbled into the dust? Must I be hurled into 
the dark abyss of despair? Fortune, iionor and [)Ower, twenty 
years of a blameless, unstained life, all reft from me? I was so 
calm, so happy. Wiiy, oh why, am i thus rudely awakened to a 
recollection of a horrible past? Why this terrible agony at the 
sight of a man, a subaltern? A man whom 1 could crush out of 
existence like a worm. No glimmering recollection even of his 
name steals across me, and yet, his presence causes my blood to 
stagnate. 

( business. ) 

Great Heavens! What is this terrible light that flashes 
through my brain? Ah! I remember now. The heartless mon- 
ster — have I fallen into his grasp? If so, God help me. for he 
only can, — 1 am dashing onward to the blink of. a yawning 
precipice. There may be ruin, dishonor and death in the gulf; 
but I cannot shrink back— dare not recoil. No; this fierce spectre 
ttivst be (juelled, or I perish. lynohly perish. 

(Count walks foor agitatidly, goes to table avd ririr/s bell. Enter 

Lr.ON, L. 1. K. ) 

Co'irnt. Send Sergeat Meissen to me; tell him J await him. 
Leon. Yes, your Highness. 

Exit Leon, l. i. e. 

(Coi^NT stana's ivith back toirard door when Leon and Meissen 

enter, l. i. e. ) 

Leon. Your Lordship; Sergeant Major Meissen. 

(Philip salvtcfi and removes his hat, but remains standing, look 
ing with fixed eyes on the count.) 
Count. ( To Leon. ) Loon you can retire. Should I want you, 
I will ring for yon. 

(Leon exits, \.. i. e., hoicing. 

(Business.) 

Philip. How are you, Colonel? 
Count. Sir; who are yon, what do you mean? 
Philip. Don't be alarmed, Colonel, 'tis only me. 
Count. You? 

Philip. Yes; look at me, don't you know me? Did yon ever 
hear of. or know a man by the name of Augustus M. Wering? 



18 



disgrackd; or, the broken s\vort>. [act 1] 



Who fought side by side as a private soldier, in the old 13th. 
with him who calls himself Count Stralenheim? Aha ! I see you 
do recollect him. 

Count. For mercy's sake, speak lower. 

Philip. Why should I? Where is the ditference betwixt us- 
There is none, and you know it. Are you not my old comrade, 
the sharer of my adventures? Yes, and from this hour hence 
forth we shall share the same fortune. You've got somethinji 
worth living for here. Something better than the bare walls of 
a barrack. Carpets of velvet, and couches of richest silk, mir 

rors reaching to the ceiling, and 

Count. For Heaven's sake, not another word; wdiat would 
you with me? 

Philip, Oh, you'll find me a magnanimous friend; my demand 
will be a very modest one, I can assure you. 
Count. Name it then, name it. 

Philip. Make my fortune as you have made your own. 
Count. M3' own; you triumph over me because you think 
you have me in your power. 

Philip. You are quite right, comrade. 1 like to bear truth. 
Count. But, sir; you are mistaken; the crime which you seek 

to build your power upon was not 

Philip. Committed by you, I suppose? Will you put me to 
the proof, eh? Will you try the potency of the spell that ha^ 
power to change this splendid home into a dungeon? and covei 
you with infamy; your wife and children with dishonor? You 
decline my challenge then? You now know that for the future 
your safety depends upon my discretion. Your long undisturbed 
dreams of splendor have lulled you into the belief that you were 
born to the rank and honors 3'ou now hold. Do I speak false in 
saying that 3^ou were once a common soldier in the gallant 13th. 
the regiment that the true Count Stralenheim commanded? 
You do not answer! Pshaw, man; lift up your head, I am not a 
pitiless fool, who have sought you only to give you up to justice 
— what have I to do with justice? Behave well to me, and 1 will 
keep silent, but, if not, woe be to you. I have hunted after you 
for years, and at last destiny set me on your track. It was 
neither accident nor fate that transferred me to the (j5tb. I have 
been exchanged in to nearly every regiment in Germau^^; al 
ways by my own request, and ahvays w^th the one desire — thai 
of finding you. Success has now come. My suspicions are 
ripened into certainty, and I await my reward. 
Count. Hear me, Meissen. 



vCT II.] disgraced; ok, the broken swoed. 19 

Philip. I want to liear nothing. Yowv liberty and perhaps 
vuur lite depends upon my breath. Fear naught, I can keep a 
^till tongue — hut my silence must he purchased. 

Count. What is it you require? 

Philip. Some gold to begin with. 

(C'oL'XT gix:es piir'se of gold.) 

Count. I have given you all the loose cash I have about me. 
but name any reasonable sum and I will write an order for it on 
my banker. 

Philip. I will think about it. (Picks up purse.) But I need 
something else besides money. 

Count. What is your demand: 

Philip. A Lieutenants commission in the 65th. 

Count. No, no, you cariuot be in earnest. 

Philip. lam not, cli! Was your Countship in earnest when 
he stole 



Count. If you are human spare me, spare me. 

Philip. Very well, then sii-; a Lieutenant's commission in 
vour regiment. 

Count. There is no vacancy. 

Philip. Then you must make one — do you hear me. T say 
\ <ni must make one. If I do not receive it to-morrow — — - 

Count. Yes, yes; vou shall have it to-morrow. 

Philip. Enough. Don't you think you ought to congratulate 
yourself on having so modest an accomplice? [Pising to go.) 
Adieu — shake hands. Oh, don't be afraid. I cannot very uelf 
|i'illute you. 

{2'hey shake hands.) • 

Now sumuion your lackey, and in my hearing, comnuind hinj in 
give me an unquestioned right of entrance here, at uny time i 
may desire. ^ 

(CoL'NT strikes hell and Leon eaters, boiving very loin. i,. i. k. ) 

Leon. I await ^our highnesses order. 

Count. Leon, admit this olticer to my presence, under .mH cir 
cumstances and at any time he may present hims<df. 
Leon. Yes, sir; your Lordship. 

(Bows Philii' to the door, l. r. k. j 
Philip. Salutes, (and both exit i.. i. e.) 



20 I>1S0UACEI); OR, THE BROITEN SWOKD. [ACT 11, 

Count. 'Tis the shadow of retributive — Justice, that closes 
round me at last. Oh, merciful God—for my wife and childrens 
suke — stay Thy avenging arm. 

{Drops in chair in tears.) 

CURTAIN, 



ACT III. 

ScENK r. Lihrnrii in the Ej pecok's Palace. — Tohle irifh papers 
upon it, b(tuk c((ses, chairs, lounge, etc. — KMrEKoK 'SNilliam and 
BiSMAKCK discocered examimnj papers. — Inkstand, pe?i, etc., en 
fa hie. 

Bisniarck. This is a dis} atcli requesting the immediate pro- 
motion of one SergeaMt Major Philip Meissen, of the 65th, to the 
rank of Lieutenant, 

( Hands papers, ) 

Emperor. Has a vacancy occurred? 

Bis. No, your Highness; I believe not. 

Em. Then why this promotion r 

Bis. The request is mside by the Colonel himself. 

Em. Ah; that alters the case. The Count is incapal>le of 
making such a deUiand without cogent refisons. T have full con- 
fidence in his judgment. Prej>are the commissio)i and I will 
sign it at once. 

{ While Emperor is signing paper Servant enters, r. i. e.) 

Homer. (Bowing.) Your highness; the young Count Albert 
Stralenheim desires an interview with your Highness. 

Em. Admit him. ( 7'o Bismarck. ) My Lord, I have reasons 
for W shing my interview with this young nobleman to be as pri- 
vate as possiblcv Please retire. Anon, I'll send for you. 

Bis. As your Highness desires. 

Bismarck gathers up papers and exits, l. i. e. 

Em. How^ the image of that young girl haunts me, I have 
only seen her twice. Once in the garden of the palace, and the 
second time, amid the ruins of the temple of Apollo, in company 
with Albert Stralenheim. And yet, her face and form have left 



22 bisgkackd; oh, the ukoken swoac [actih 

a fadeless impression upon iny memory. An angel's puril 
seeins to dwell in her dimpled smile, ;ind truth and innocence Mt\ 
written in fairest characters on her beautiful brow. Woe befall 
the mnn would wrong her; w^ere he one of my subjects, he shf>ii]d 
make the fullest atonement. 

(Enter Homek, r. i. f... followed by Albert.) 
Hoirter. Your Highness: Count Albert Stralenheim, 

JExit Homek. r. i. k. 
( EiO'EROR i'i.ses and exte?ids hand.) 
Em. I nv.i hapy to receive you. Albert, be seated. 
(Bi(.fine.ss.) 

Albert. I thank your Highness. 

Em. .^.Ibi'Vt, it is my wish to attach j'ou to my person. The 
olTjce of private secretary is at your service. Your father has 
served the State long and faithfully; and whatever honors I cnu 
confer upon his son, I will. Yon have an elevated nund, and .-i 
pure h(!art, tind [ am pro^id to add that you possess my full coti 
fidence and regard. 

Albert. (Jiising.) Your words, your Highness, are most (hi; 
fering; and tlu^ loyal service of my life shall s})eak my gratitu<l. 
A career of usefulness to my" sovereign and my country nowlii- 
before me. In the uuAvritten pages of the future, I shall en 
'leavor to inscribe characters of such silvery brightness, th:ti 
their luster may shine op my posterity. 

JEm. Y'es, yes; 1 presume you will shortly introduce a brid 
at court. It is not ray province to pry into the secrets of tht 
heart, but when the happy hour arrives for you to present your 
bride to me, I shall expect to find a lad_v of such peerless be;jut\ . 
I hat few can rival, and none surpass her. 

Albert. And if my first love, my lord, were set upon a maiden 
whose only dower was her virtue, whose only heritage was her 
innocence and beauty, and whose rank was no higher than that 
of a toiling peasant, would your Highness lend your aid to crush 
this desei't flower: or would you smile upon the hands that had 
the honest}' and courage to transplant it to a fairer sctil? 

Em. I will east aside the soverigii. and be the man. VYe all 
Mwe something to our social position, .'ind ought never wantonl\ 
outrage it; but the happiness of a lite and an unstained puril; 
of confidence have higher claims upon us. Your secret is i^Mrtlx 
known to me. I have seen the maiden you speak of. 

Albert. Seen her. mv Lord! 



' r 111.] disgraced; or, thk brokkn sword. 2."! 

Em. Yes, twice; the second and last time in your companv 

A Ihert M_y Lord ! 

Em. Alltert 8tr.ilenheiin, .in Emperor might envy yon i^nch n 
rreasuro. 

Albert. A"d yet my father despises that treasure. 

Em- On acconut of the young girl's obscure origin- I 
j. 'resume? 

Albert. Yes, he quarreled with the simple wisdoiji of Dans*- 
Nature, for not introducing her into our scented circles. 

Em. You really love her then? jVay, Albert, do not look so 
reproaclifuUy at me. I wish to serve yon, for I feel a strauge 
interest in this young girl. You have pleaded your suit 
rhe Count. 

Albert. I have, Sire. (sigJi.s.) 

Em. And he has rc'iected it? 

AlberL Yes, 

Em. You can scarcely blame him lor that, liolh llie ( ounl 
and Countess Stralenheini, ar(> descended from the oldest an<l 
jjroudest nobility in Germany, and they may shrink at the idea 
of their only son allying himself to an hnudile peasant girl. You 
have sisters too, Albert; do you think they would not keenly 
feel the scandal of such a connection? 

Albert. Scandal! 

Em. How impetious you are. Take my advice and lea\e love 
\o time. A few months while they serve to ripen your passion, 
may yield yon the jterfect flower you covet. iMeanwliile 1 ^vill 
exert my influence with the Count in your belialf -rely upon me. 

(Shakes hands tciih Albert,) 

Albert. Good day, youi' Highness. {Bowing,) 

Exit A x.B]':ia', n. i.. i;. 

■^ t I : M . IL—La n d.s nape or y a r de n , i/ti on e . 

{Enter Ai-BEKT, n. j. e, ) 

Albert. >yo\T au> I indeed happy\ edch has full conlidcneein iln- 
'iiher, and can well afford Ia") wait^ I have no ijish to wound my 
father's sensitive pride; for he has ever been kind and indulgeni 
to me, and 1 must obey Ins wishes. How happy Genevieve will 
be when I tell her of my prospective success. What a full toned 
Joy will resound in her voice, as she speaks out the gratitude of 
her loving heart. 

Exit. L. I. [c 



2i disgraced; or, the bkoken savokd. [act hi, 

Scene III. — Interior of Meissen Cottaye^ same as in Act I., in 
two. — Genkvievk cmi.l Madam M., discovered readinxj and sew 
ing. — Music. — Enter rmi.ir fhronyh door in fat. 

3fadam 31. Why Cai)taiii; you here again V 

Philip. Don't call ine ("aptain yet, Madeline. 

Madam 31. Major, then. 

Philip. Only a Lieutenant, Madeline; the Captainey next, 
Genevieve, who do you think has won the raee now, you or I? 

Gen. I do not understand yon, sir. 

Philip. So I'm not good enough for you yet. Have a care 
child, thai your pride like others; does not have a fall. 

3Iadam 31. You must not notice her Lieutenant, for she's in 
love, so you must ejccuse her. Love, you know is like youth, and 
it comes to us only once. 

Philip. What! Nonsense, Madeline. I have been in love 
ovei' one hundr.^l time=?. L I'emember when I was quartered in 
Metz, J was in love with seven gii'ls all at once — or they were 
with me, which is all the same. 

31adara 31. Aye, but you know that you officers are such 
heart-breakers, .Lieutenant. But come, I've such a nice chicken 
f(;r you, "Captain, "' and 

Philiji. I'm not a captain yet. Madam. 

3Iad(im. 31. I beg your pardon, sir. Oh I Dear, dear what 
was I thinking about? Oh, T remember — the chicken. 

Philip. Nevermind the chicken to day. I dine at the officers 
mess now. 

3fadam M. A glass of Avine then Captain? 

Philip. Lieutenant, if yon please. 

(Stamping his foot indignantly.) 

3f adorn 3f. Oh, dear me! you brought my heart into my 
mouth. 

Madam exits, l. h. 

Philip. I hope you like the tlavor of it. (To Genevieve.) 
My promotion does not seem to create much of an impressiov 
upon you. 

Ge7i. What im])ression should it make, sir? 

Philip. Yes, OPenevieve. I have found the lock at last to fit 
my golden key. I have only given it one turn, and out drops 
my Lieutenants commission. I shall turn it again in a week, 
and out will drop my Captaincy — and then how the upstart pride 
of the noble Count will 

Gen. The C'ount? 



4CT III.] disgk.vckd; ok, the ukoken swohd. 25 

Philip. Aye, the man 3011 hope to cmII your father, some of 
these days. He's a gioat man, Genevieve — the (Jount — rich, 
titled, poVerful, and has the ear of the Emperor. What a round 
of U)ftv steps he has climbed — one kiek of tiie foot, and dowa 
he comes groveling in the mire. 

Gen. Count Stralenheim deserves the honors he has won, tluy 
lit h m with becoming grace. 

Philip. Of course, he was born to them — they take to h'm 
naturally — well, your lover will 1 e his heir, and if the Count 
would only give his consent to your maniage, what superb pros- 
l»ect you would have, bhall I intercede for youV he wdl hardly 
refuse me. 

Gen. [Eising proudly.) Ko, No, Lieutenant Meissen ; if one 
trivial movement of your lips would break down the only Inirrier 
that prevents my marrying with Albert vStralenheim, I would 
choose to -walk through long years of loveless life, rather than that 
you should make it. Pursue your own tortuous ways for your 
own woi-tldess ends; I can stand alone without your aid. 

MUSIC. 

[Grosping Jicr roufjhly.) 
Philip. You defy me then, do you? You know not the power 
I hold over him you Love; that witii one whisper I could make 
him cringe before me like a whipped cur. ^>hall I breath it, Eh? 
Gen. Mother! Mother! 

[Enter Madam M., l. u.) 
3fadam M. Why, Captain; you will hurt the child — let go 
of her. 

( Business. ) 
Philip. Yes, I can bend the pride of the father and son, as 
easily as L now bend the joints of these soft arms; and then you 
will have something to love me for — won't 3'ou, little one? 

[Business.) 
Gen. Let go or you'll break my wrist. 

Philip. I'll break your heart and give you something to hate 
aie for in earnest. 

( G ENE V I EVE cries. ) 
Gen. Mother, Mother! Save me from this inhuman wretch 
Philip. Aye; you will yet have cause to call me an inhuman 
wretch, when I have sunk the whole brood of them lower than 
the dust. 

MUSIC. 



26 disgraced; ok, the buoken sword. [act in. 

(Gevkvieve shrinks. Philip striMjyles rouijhly with her, as if to 
kiss her. — Albert enters door in /iat (ind knocks Pi.ilip dotcn.) 

Madam 3f. Mevcy on me, he lias killed the Cnptain. 

PICTUHE. 

Albert. Who is this fellow, Genevieve; and what business has 
he here? 

Philip. (Bising.) I will ansvver that, sir; I'm an oflicer in 
the Kmperor's body guard, and curse me if you do not repent 
this. 

Albert. I was not aware there was an officer in my father's 
reuinunt, who would so far forget himself as to offer insult to an 
nni)roteeted girl; and I regret to see that uniform disgraced on 
your person. Look on this ijoor frightened girl, clinging to me 
in fear and trembling. 

Phili[). Farewell, Albert Stralenheim. The Colonel's son — 
some day you w 11 r.'gret this insult 

Exit Philip, k. i. e. 

Scene IV. — Wood or landscape, iti one. 

I Enter Leon xery stiffly and slowly, k. i. e,, vnth umbrella under 
his arm, and large official documents in his hand, 

Leon. [S owly.) '•'Non coniatibus en swampo up stumpo com- 
niitibus grabus, sic semper tyranus — et saleratibus'" — which being 
interpreted, means — nothing at all. What wonderful faith must 
inv master repose in me, to entrust in my care, these imiwrtant 
otiicial do(;uments relating to the vast sale of de cimiposed vege- 
tation that has accumulated by atomic augmentation, without the 
least fear of my misappropriation or of confiscation. But years 
of attention and mental circumnavigation, have given him full 
confidence in ray ability to contract a negotiation in this vast 
speculation. 

(Looks off' L. n.) 

Ah; hither cometh the quaint valetudinarian. I will salute 
him, and ascertain whither he goeth, and upon what mission he 
))er-aml>ulateth? 

[filter HoMEK, L. I. E , slowly, digniffclly and pompously with um- 
brella and papers, same as Leon.) 
(Business.) 

Leon. (Bowing very low.) Good morrow, most res|)ected Ilo- 
mer-i bus. If it be not to iiuiuisitive, may I enipiire whither 
thou aoeth? 



ACT III.] disgraced; ok, the broken sword. 



Homer. Most eertainly iii\ (.•nuu-iatfd and elongated fncnd. 
I am the bearer of very inipoitant dispatelies to the* chief but- 
ler, and the rnast(.'r of the hound lodge of his Royal Iliihriess, 
anti have no time to loose while on my important mission. But 
tell me n)y friend, weit thou ever in loveV 

Leon. love! Do not mention it. Foi" three months did 1 
court a prt tty maiden, and more than ten thalers did 1 disburse 
upon her in that time. She had three other lovers at the same 
time — a tai)ster, a tinker and an ostler. 1 promised to cudgel 
the three of them if she would only say the word, but sJie would 
not. Was that not proof enough that I loved. No man knows 
the heart pangs I have suffered. Yes, she went and Jilted me. 
Excuse these tears, they will flow — alas! alas! my heart is broken 
— I cannot live much longer — J will wear a weed around my hat 
for the balance of my days. 

Homer. Do not give vvay, my trien;!. I have suffered. O. 
false, false Cathrina. But my friend, keep up a good heart, be a 
man— look at me and be a man — be a brave man. 

Leon. Thou art not brave. 

Hovier. Man doth not walk this earth braver than I am. 
But in the words of the poet, "he that fights and runs away, will 
live to fight another day." — Shakespeare. 

{Business.) 

Leon. Stay, more T look at thee, more I gaze into tliose deep 
blue dreamy eyes, more I scan that manly form, more am I 
tempted to think thou art — stay, hath thou a mole, the mark of 
a cabbage under thy left wrist? 

Homer. I have. 

Leon. Then thou art m}- long lost brother. 

( Tim bra ce. Bus in ess. ) 

Hotner. Is it indeed my brotl)er? Yes, as like as one pea is 
to another; two souls with but a single thought, two hearts that 
beat as one. 

Leon. And if I love too wildly, who would not love thee like 
Leon. ^ 

Homer. Come brother, come, let's wander, and find some^,. 
cafe, wdiere with pipe and foaming glass we can while the time 
away. 

( Business. ) 

£xii L. I. E. 



ce 



28 disgraced; or, the bkokejs swokd. [Acrni. 



Sc ^NE V. — Parlor, same as in Act IF, Scene /, irith some altera- 
tion in setting, conform ivy to depth of stage. — Count and 
Countess ^TK.\LLNHt.iM discovered seated. Enter l^v.ns, u. i. e., 
bowing very low. 

Leon. Your Hiolmosp, Lieutenant ^leisseu, of the Goth, de-. 
sires an interview with the Count alone. 

Count. I will not see him. Why should my privacy be thus 
disturbed? I will not see him! 

(Leon mora toward the door.) 

Lady G. N' » No; Count, that answs'r will not do — tliat mes 
sage wdl sound too harsh. Tell him you are engaged 

Count. 1 have it now. Leon, when 1 strike the bell you may 
admit him, and not before, 

Leon. Yes, your Highness. 

Exit Leon, l. i. e. 

Lady O. This man seems to hold some strange and terrible 
intluence over you ; the very sound of his name inspires you with 
fear. Why does he visit you so frequently? Since his first visit 
your temper, once so calm and placid, has given way to angry 
gusts of passion. The doom of midnight seems to have crept 
into your heart. Tell me, tell me, I implore you? What dark 
mystery lies hidden there? 

Count. Believe m.e, Gertrude, 'tis nothing; nothing only some 
urgent business connected with the regiment, 1 have been in- 
strumental in this man's promotion, and he believe-; that he best 
evinces his gratitude, by an aver zealous display of military duty 
— ^join our childien in the arbor for a few moments, Gertrude; he 
will not detain me long. Anon; I'll come to you. 

Exit Countess, l. h, 
(Count strikes the bell.) 
(Leon enters with Philip, l. i. e., and bowing low.) 
Leon. Lieutenant Meissen, 

Leon exits, u. i, E. 
[Business.) 

0)tmt. Can I not have one single moment in the society of 
those I love, without your interruption? What new torture has 
your brain invented for me now? 

Philip. Colonel, you are very bitter with your old comrade. I 
have been so kind to you. Another man might have; denounced 
you, dragged you to a public trial, and 



ACT III.] 1>TSGRACEI>; OR, THE BHOKKK SWORl). , 2S 



Coiint. I know your jiower, man, too well ; state j^our demand, 
rob nie of* m^ l.-ist coin, but leave me the precious niemoiy of an 
honorable career. 

Pht'/ij). Rob you., Colonel! Oh, no; I never ttX)k to the thief 's 
trade yet. My c<niscience is too dainty for that. A pity perhaps, 
because if J had doiie i-.o, 1 might have been enobled too; who 
knows. 

CnK)iL Do not tempt me beyond endui-anee. 

Philip. You are always so passionate. Colonel — do try and 
keei) cool. 

Coviit. Come, sir; to the point, what is it 3'ou require. 

Philip. Piomot on ! 

Contit. Promotion! you have had it^ 

Phili/K I niust have a higher grade. I insist upon your pro 
curing me a ca])tain's commission. 

Count. It is uttei'ly imytossible. I have not the jmwer,, 

Philip. Impossible! Nothing is im|)ossible with the potent 
Count Stralenheim, the friend and eontidante of the Emperon 
Tell him I saved your life, and you owe me an everlasting debt 
of gratitude which ^^-ou can never repay. Th« stoi-y will be al) 
the better tor tiaving a mixtnre of truth in it. 

Count If you have one grain of human feeling in your heart 
— do not goad me to madness. 

Philip, I've not < ome here to listen sir, to your cant; I want s. 
captMin's commission. 

Cotoit. Heaven help me! Heaven help me! 

Philip, You will see the Emperor personally to-morrif)w, and 
when \<n\ leave his Highness, you will carry my ca{)taiii's com- 
mission in your Docket.. Do you hear? 

Cotait. I-I-will do my best 

Philip. Of course; I knew you would. You need not fume 
and rage, and fret; we have h.ave only to understand each other., 
and we shall get on admirably. 

Count. May I nov/ be released from this interview? 

Philip, Presently. Your eldest datightcr's birthday, I be 
iievf , is at hand. She is a superb creature. 

Count. Silence, villain: Pollute not the innocence of my 
child by your breath. 

Philip' Your eldest daughter's birthday is to be celebrated 
by n fete. Cards of invitation have already been issut^I; with 
one exception every ofiicer of your regiment has been invited. 
If Captain Meissen's name is not included in the list, that dis 
tinguished officer may resent the indignity. 



30 disgraced; or, the bhoken sword. ( act m 

Count. An oversight, nothing more, of the Countess; itshali 
be rectified. 

Philip. Yes, I presume so. Your estimable \ix<\y has for som<.: 
(•ause or other, taken a great dislike to me, and has frequently 
hinted her contempt for me, in a most conspicuous manner. But 
I am not vindictiA'e, as3'ou already know. This trivial omission 
will of course be corrected. 

Count. 1 will see to it m3'self. 

Philip. 'J'hank you. Colonel. You ought to feel proud in 
having your old comrade amongst the gaping crowd of flatterers. 

Count. If your brain can invent no fresh demand upon my 
fear, spare me at least the further torture of your presence. 

[ViiUA^ j)laces his hands upon the Count's shoulders.) 

Philip. I'm not the man. Colonel, to-forsake a brave comrade. 
Count iStralenheim and Captain Meissen will stand or fall to 
gether. Good bye — old boy — good bye. Remember your prom 
ise — a captain's commission. 

PICTURE. 
CURTAIN. 



ACT lY. 

- Li:NE I. — Cn'cind parlor vnth center arch doorway in Stralk^- 
HEiM Mansion. — Flowers and J'ovntains.— Paintin(/s, etc., adorn 
ing the walls. — Ladies and gentlemen elegantly attired. Officers 
in full uniform. — Philip discovered, slttinq alone in the fore- 
ground, on sofa, K. H. — Music as curtainrises. 

Count. [Entering r. i. e., approaching Philit. ) I trust you 
are enioying yourself Captain V 

Philip^ Yes>, very mucli indeed. 

Count. Can 1 do anything for you, Captain? 

Philip. Yes, remain here, and listen to nte. You have pur 
jjosey avoided me to night, and a majority of your guests have 
followed your exami)le. Now, stay here beside me where every 
eye in the room ean see us. 

Count. Pray speak lower; do not at k'ast seek to humiliate 
me in the presence of my own ehildren. 

Philip. I shall speak as loud as I choose. I haA'e been hu 
miliateu, and it is now I turn tiie tables. Now understand me, 
you t.Vi rich; I must he rich too. You are noble, and by all the 
saints in the calendar, 1 will be noble too. 

Covnt. Noble? 

Philip. Tluit's the word, sir! Noble. I'll show these proud 
foo s, that I can hold my head as high as any of them. 

Count. For heaven's sake speak lower, or find some other 
tJTiH' to specify \our wishes, 

Pl,i ip. Yes, a patent of nobility gained by your infiuonce>, 

C<.unt. JMakp" your demand to morrow, when J can. reason with 
yon upon its f( 1 y. 

Philip. Why to-morrow? Are you ashamed to be seen spei)k 
ing with me? 31y demauil is made now. No prevarication — 
your answer? 



32 disgracitd; or, the broken sword. [act iv. 

Count. Uiion what grouiul can I bcase such a request to the 
Emperor? 

PhiliiJ. I leave that to your own discretion. You may grovel, 
and pray, and whimper, or you may sell half of these estates to 
purciiase t; but the patent of nobility must he issued and in my 
hands. That will be one step more towards the achievement of 
another desire'. 

Count. Another desire? 

Philip, Yes. 1 intend to marry. 

Count. Be it so, you cannot reijuire any advancement from 
n e in a step of that nature? 

Philip. Sir; you are mistaken there, the lad}' I have selected 
btlongS"to yonr family. " 

Count. To my family? 

Philip. Yes, the chosen one of my heart, is Ernestine Stral 
enheim — your lovely' daughter, 

{^husiness.) 
You do well to pause — you woidd doubtless strike me, if 30U 
thought the blow would silence me. 

Count. Wretch! you do not mean that. 

Philip. Sir; listen to m^ I have been crowed over and 
jeered at tocbiy, until my blood has been heated into a passion, 
and I am dange;'ous. 

Count. Oh, God! This is the consequence cf 

Philip. Yo ir crim '—you naviir shrank from the crime itself, . 
but you now shrink from detection. You saw no dishonor in the 
deed when 3'^ou perpetrated it — that lies in the inevitable dis 
covery unless 

Count. ( Wildly.) What? You told me something, — but it 
flashed like lightning through my brain, and scorched my mem 
ory — let me reflect. 

Philip. I want to marry your daughter. 

Count. Ah! those fearfid words again. You cannot be in 
earnest, this is only a heartless jest. If you have one glimmer 
of a father's love in your heart, you would know how sharply 1 
fee! the stab. I will forgive you this time, but thrust at me in 
future through any other form, save throi>gh t]»e affections of 
those who are more precious to me than life, wealth, or 

Philip. Honor? 

Count. Yes, even honor. That young life is full of promise, 
radient with hope, and I hold it at higher value than all else on 
earth. Ask for any sacrifice that does not touch jxiy sinless wife, 
my pure and spotless children, and I will make it to preserve 



iCT VI.] disgraced; ok, the bkoken savord. 33 

their ))eaoe — not mine — for while vou live and carry the fatal 
secret on 30ur tongue, the haunted criminal is less wretched than 
r.m I. 

Philip. Your tine words will not turn me from my purpose; I 
.i.ni not yet penitent. I have told you ihe final sum at wliich iny 
silence can be purchased. 

Count. Oh, God! If you have a heart, he-think 3'ou; she has 
been reared in the lap of luxury, her young- form has grown from 
infancy under the fostering care of her noble mother. The affi- 
anced ioverof her virgin heart now^ stands beside her, hopeful for 
the morrow that is about to dawn upon their blissful union. 
Kven if I consentod, could you lead a jo3'ous, loveless, not bride, 
but a vi 'tim to the altei-? 

Philip. I have already told you that is the final sum, at which 
my silence can be bought. 

Count. I'll talk to rock — to ice — no longer. 

Philip. Your answer; come. 

Count. What? give my dove into your vulturous claws? Js'o, 
never! Never! 

Philip. Beware, sir; be heedful of your speech, my noble 
Count, or those strains of music will be harsh with discord pres- 
ently — once for all — will you— or will you not — oive me youi 
daughter in marriage? 

Count, Never: no never! 

Philip. One word and it will be as irrevocable as eternal jus- 
tice. If you do not instantU' present me to your guests as your 
future son-in-law. 

Count. What? 

[Breaking away from Philip.) 

Philip. 1 will publicly denounce you. 

Count. [Grandly.) Wretch! Monster! I loathe, despise 
and defy 3'ou. Do your worst! 

[Business.) 
[3fusic ceases, and guests gather around the Count and Philip.) 

Philip. Hold! hold! Those titles would better become you 

than that of Count 

[Business.) 

MUSIC. 

Count. Captain Wallenstein, I order you to place Captain 
Meissen in arrest. 

Wallenstein. Your sword. Captain! 

Philip. Hear me, one moment gentlemen, one moment. 



34 DISGRACI't); OH, IHK BKOKKN SWOUD. [aCTIV< 

Count. Heed him not, heeil liiiii not — bear him away, 1 com 
mand you. 

Philip. Here is my swoivl, sir; take it, (hands it to Wali.k's 
STKiN,) and with it listen to me. Tliis man who stands here as 
the Colonel of the 65th, lias no I'ight to that distinction. lie is 
an imposter. The title of Count Stralenheim which he bears, is no 
more his than mine. Years ago this tlattered, courted, fool, was 
my comrade in arms, we were both private soldiers in the same 
regiment, the 13th batallion to which the true Count Stralenheim 
belonged — whose wealth he stole — whose title he assumed — and 
whose life he took with his own murderous hand. Deny these 
acquisitions if you dare! 

[Business.) 

[Consternation^ Albert (/rasps his father'' s hand, and the Count- 
ess ^EKiKVDK faints.) 

Albert. Count Stralenheim will answer this vile calumn}', sir, 
with th6 voice of truth and innocence. 

[Business.) 

Count. Captain Wallen stein, obey my orders — remove your 
prisoner. ^\y son, 1 thank you for your courage, look to 3'our 
mother and yojiir sisters. Ladies and gentlemen, I will answer 
to this caluminous charge, to my sovereign. 

PICTITRE, 
CURTAIN. 



ACT Y. 

ScKNE T. — The libra rt/ in f'ouvT Stralenheim's mansion. — Count 
Stralenheim discovered. — Books and papers lyini] upon the 
table, stool, etc. — Knock at 'he doer, r. i. e. 

Count. Who's there? I thouolit I liad locked the door. 

{Enter Ekxestine, icho kneels at her father' s feet.) 

Ernestine, child is it you? 

( J:usiness.) 

Frtiest. Father! [In tears.) 

Coimt. Yes, yes; I am your father, Ernestine, your sliarne 
strifk'u father. 

Ernest. Oh, father, tha* cruel man, said ^'ou were — oh, I can- 
not sDPak the word. 

Count. A murderer! Look in my eyes, my child, and tell 
me if you think that name be'ono^s to me? Say whether you be- 
lieve, this hand that now touches your innocent cheek has ever 
been stained by human blood? 

(Business. ) 

Ernest. No. no dear father, I do not believe it. I never will, 

Ccuut. (Aside.) Oh, the truf^t'ncness of youth; even when 
the laws of vengeance is wreaked u]'on me, the aflectiou of this 
pure heart will follow me with blessings. My child, have the 
gu('!-ts departed? 

Ernest. Yes, father, all, 

Cottnt. And Count Steinberg? 

Ernest. H? remained after all had gone, praying to see me, 
but we must l>e strangers to each other now, until this vile slan 
der is cleared from our name. 

Count. But Ernestine, if circumstances have linked a chain 



36 pisGRACEto; Or, the broken swORt*. [act v, 

of suspicious evidence against me — a chain so strong that all my 
asservations are powerless to break it, must your pure heart be 

robbed of its hope, your life of its summer, liecause 

Oh, God! Oh, God! 

(Biishie.fs.) 

{Enter Officer ami flle of three men, u \. E.^with jinpers.) 

Officer. Count Stralenheim, I hold a warrant from the Era 
peror for your instant arrest; also a further order, placing under 
strictest suiveillance, your family and servants. No one must 
enter or leave this house without my written consent. A car 
riage is waiting without to convey you to the Emperor's palace. 
You will prepare to go immediately. 

■ [Business.) 

Ernest. {Clinging to him.) Father, father may I not go with 
you? 

Count. No, no, ray child, from this moment 3'ou must gather 
a woman's strength in your heart. This is but the first taste of 
the bitter cup that we are so soon to drink to the very dregs. 
Good bye m^- child, good bye, and may God bless you. 

{Bv^iness.) 

{Kisses EuNESTiNi? ferventlj.) 

Ernest. Father! Father! Father! 

MUSIC. 

{Business.) 

{Officer supports Ernestine, who falls fainting to the floor. Ladt 
Gertrude and Cecelia enter r. and l. h. Officers takes hold 
of the Count a* if dragging him. away. Lady G., clings to the 
Count and Cecelia kneels.) 

picture. 

curtain. 



ACT VI. 

Scene I. — Library in the Emperor's Palace, elegantly fun} ished, 
— The Emperor discovered seated examining papers. 

Page, (Entering l. i. e. ) Your Highness, a young girl craves 
an audience witli the Emperor. 

Em. A young girl, is she alone? 

Page. No, your Highness; she is accompanied l»y ah aged 
lady. 

Em. What is tiie nature of her business? 

Page. She reserves that for your ear alone, your Highiiess, 

Em. Her name? 

Page. She gave only one name, Genevieve^ 

Em. Genevieve! That name is unknown to me — neverthe- 
less, a Imit her. 

[Exit Page l. i. e,, and enter tvith Genenieve nnd Madam 

M., E. I. E.) 

Page. (Bowing.) The ladies of whom I spoke^ your Highness. 
(Busines.s.) 

Em. You may retire, gentlemen. 

Exit Page and Bismarck, l i. E. 
Be seated, ladies. 

Genevieve. My Leige, I have ventured to intrude upon your 
patienie, on behalf of a family, lately happy, but now alas! 
plunged in deepest despair; trusting 

Em. 1 know lady, of whom yon speak. Count Stralenheim, 
is it not? 

Gen. It is, your Highness. 

Em. Are you aware lady, that the Count is charged with a 
most terrible crime? 



38 disgkackd; or, the bi;okkn sword. [act vi. 

Gen. Yes, your Highness; nnd I also know that his accuser 
is a cruel, wicked man, to wlioni truth and honor are words 
without meaning'. 

Em. Granting all of this, lady, still I can see no palliation 
for the Count's guilt, in his ai-cusers wickedness. 

Gen. If he be guilty, the greater the reason that his inno- 
cent wife and children shouhl find pity and comj^assion. They 
are at least blameless. Oh, your Highness, you are great and 
powerful; be generous too, "and temper justice with mercy," 

Em. The law mu~t take its course, lady. The Count has dug 
the abyss of shame with his own hands. Answer me, Lady, are 
you not the maiden to whom the young Count Albert Stralen- 
heim, has given his love. 

Gen. I am, youi Highness. 

Em. Are you aware, lady, that that young man's prospects 
are novv ruin.'d forever? You will of course forget him. 

Gen. Forget him, your Highness — yes, in death. When Al- 
bert Stralenheim sought my love, he believed himself to be rich 
and noble, he knew that I was poor and low born; still, he was 
content to take me to the alter, to lift nie to his station; and 
shall 1 novv, when misery over-siiadows him, meanly forsake himr 
No, your Highness, he may need my strength — a feeble woman's 
strengh — to sustain him, and it shall not be withheld. But 1 
come not to speak of myself; I am here to plead for the uidiappy. 
You are the Sovereign and judge of these States; cannot youi 
Highness vouchsafe to the Count a private examination? 

Em. To what end? 

Gen. To spare him if innocent, the indignity of a public trial. 
My heart tells me he is guiltless of this crime. I believe him to 
be the victim of some crafty [)lot, formed by this worthless Meis- 
sen's cunning brain. You do not know that man's baseness, 
your Highness. The venom of the serpent, and the cowardice 
of the wolf lurks in his nature. 

(Genkvieve returns up the staite.) 

Em. Yes, yes; my desire to <lo justice has weakened my 
power to render mercy. This girl is right; Stralenheim capnot 
be guilty until he is proved so. I may without trampling on the 
laws of equity, quell this scandal at once, if Meissen's accusa- 
tion should turn out to ))e false. Your prayer is granted, lady. 
I will give the Count a private examination, as you have requested. 
Not only the culprit, but his family, his accuser and yourself 
shall be present to witness the proceedings. May the Supreme 



ACT VI.] Dl^^GR VCKl); OK, THK BIIOKEX SWOKD. 39 

Judge of all enable him to prove his innoeence. It will be a 
hajipy triumph, fair one, for more hearts than one. 

{tStri/ies the bell. Enter Pagk uvd hoirs very lou\, i.. i. E. ) 

Page. Your Highness, I await your orders. 

£tii. l!if<^iMn Count Bismarck I desire to see him immediately. 

Pii[/e. Yes, your lliuliuess. 

Page. [Enfering vtth Bismarck, r. i. e.) Your Highness, 
Count Bismarck. 

(Bismarck bowis.) 

Em, Count, issue the necessary orders for the appearance of. 
Count Stralenhcim and family, also for the attendance of Cap 
i.'iiii Meissen, forthwith. 

(Emperor takct seaf^) 
Bismarck. Yes, Sire. 

Writes and sends Page ojf with letter., l. i. e. 

{Enter Oeii jer uuth quard coiidactirig Count Stralenheim as 
prisoner, l. i. e. ) 

Officer, My Lord, Count Stralenheim. 

Em. Be seated, sir. Now summons his accuser, Captain 
Meissen. 

(Guard exit and retttrn icith Captain Meissen, l. i. e. ) 

Officer. Your Highness, C:ij)tain Meissen, 

[Brisiness,) 

Em, ( iTo Bismarck. ) Are we read} to proceed? 

Bismarck, We are, my Lord. 

Em. (Bising.) Count Stralenheim, arise. 

(The Count rises.) 

I cannot dismiss from my memory, the many loyal services you 
have rendered to your Sovereign and your country; but before 1 
deliver you into the hands of legnl justice, I w ish to give yor. 
the beneht of a private examination. Tell me then, are you 
guilty of tlie fearful ci'ime laid to yoiw charge, or are j-ou tJie 
victim of a vile imposter? 
Count, I am Guilty! 

(Btcsiness.) 

(Countess Gertrude faints and falls on sofa, Ernestine and 
Cecelia grasp each other, and Albert supports his mother. 
Consternation, Omens., Guilty!) 

4 



40 disgraced; oe, the sroKEN sword. [act vi 



Count. I am guilty, your Highness — but not of the crime of 
murder. 

[Business. Dtmib Show.) 

Standing in your august presence watciied over by sorrowful 
ages that have never seen the shadow of falsehood on my lips, 
I now reveal the actual truth. 1 was once, as my accuser has 
stated, a private soldier in the 18th Hussar's, and my real name is 
Carl Klionge. Count (!a[,t:iin iStralenheim was the commanding 
officer of my company; he was my patron and my friend. Our 
regiment was ordered to join tlie army which was then marching 
upon Russia,. This man, Meissen, deserted on the march, and 
frcm that time until he joined the 65th. I have never seen him. 
On our route, the Count was seized with a malignant fever, and 
at his request, I was permitted to remain belnnd to attend him. 
The disease proved fatal and he died. Here, your Highness, is 
a copy of the priest's certificate of his death; they both took 
place at Carcow, in Poland. 

(Empjckor and Bismarck examine papers carefully.) 

Em.. Yes, tliey are undoubtedly authentic; go on, sii-; go on 

Count. I received from his dying lips his last injunction. He 
was the last surviving branch of the ancient house of Stralen 
heim. Not one of his own blood remained to inherit his A'asi 
estates. There was a yourtg girl of humble birth, to whom he 
had become devotedly attached. He had woed her in secret, in 
secret he had married her; but for some unhappy quarrel which 
subsequently arose between them, he discarded and deserted her; 
nut no one can attest more truly than myself, the bitter penance 
of his soul in his dying hours, for his passionate sin. To my 
charge he commited the title deeds of his estates, and the entire 
control of the fortune ho died possessed of. But, not for my 
t)enefit was the trust made; but for his discarded wife, whom he 
had left at Dresden in penury. 

Em. And you usurped his title, appropriated his fortune, and 
betrayed the trust imposed In you'? 

Count. Pardon me, your Highness. I returned at once to 
Germany, and journeyed to Dresden. There I made the most, 
searching inquiry for his widow. My conscience bears me wit 
ness that I spared neither expense nor time in my endeavors to 
find her. After a tedious and fruitless search, the only t dings 
I could learn were, that a femalg answering her description had 
some months previously quitted Diesden, and gone, no one knew 
whither. Then, but not til! then, did temptation seize uypn me 



ACT VI. 1 disgraced; or, tke broken sword. 41 

to assume the Count's title, and falsity my own name lor his. 
Nature favored the deceipt. In heighth, person and features, we 
bore a great resemblance to each other. No one in <'ermany, 
save myself, knew of his death. He had no relations, no heii's. 
I believed that I was entailing no injury on the living, and I re- 
solved that my future career should bring no reproach upon the 
dead. I procured a Captain's commission and joined the Trus 
sian airay, and fought under its banners until the capitulation 
(of Faris) brought peace to my country. Years have passed 
since that blacK spot in my calendar, but not one day has been 
dishonored bj' an unworthy act. JMy past career is too w^ell 
known to 30ur Highness for me to dwell upon; but despite the 
distinguishing marks that adorns it, I have been unable to ex- 
piate the crime which Heaven has thought right to reveal. 

Em. (To Philip.) Can you, sir; disprove this statement. 

Philip. I always believed, your Highness, the Count to have 
bee 1 murdeied. 

Em. Then why did you not seek out the assassin and bring 
himtojust.ee? — you need not answer me that, sir — I now see 
plainly the cause of your rapid rise. That man has been your 
victim — your tool. You remained silent, to serve your own vile 
ends, using your powers .o extort honors which are reseiveel for 
brave men on 13% not for perjurers and deserters. 

(Emperor touches a hell, and Page enters r. h.) 
Send in a guard. 

(Guard enters r. i. e,) 
Strip the epaulets fiom that man's shoulders, und let his sword 
be broken in front of his command, and do not allow him to dis- 
grace that uniform. See also that his name is erased from the 
arm}'- rolls — convey him forthwith to the dungeon of the fortress, 
and there confine him during our royal pleasure. 
[Guard exits icith Philip, r. i. e.) 
(To Counts.) And 30a, sir; I sentence to dishonorable dis- 
missal from the seivice, and exile for life; and unless the true 
heirs of Count Stralenheim can be found, the State setteth its 
solemn seal of confiscation upon 3'our lands and wealth. 

[Business.) 

(Lady Gertrude rushes to the Count and throws her arms around 

his neck, his family gather around him. 

Lady G. Karl! Karl! you are still noble in my esteem. You 
have been a loving shield to me in the past, and I will be your 
peaceful refuge in the threatening future. 



42 DTSCTRaCKD; ok, the BnOKEX SWORD. [act VI. 

Gen. (Kneeling at the Empekok's feet.) Your Highness, 
hear me, hear me, i entreat you. 

I^m. Nut to pieade Tor h.in — justiee wavers not. 

Gen. I plead for justice only; nothing beyond, nothing be- 
neath it — a strange thought creeps through my brain. 

Jim. What is It girl? 

Gen. (2'o the Covsr.) What was the maiden name of the 
young wile that the real Count deserted? 
. Count. 'Twas "Adelaide Grayson." 

Gen. .Adelaide Grayson ! Th.it was oni/ mother's name; my 
I ooi- unhappy mother! (Cries.) 

Omens. Vour mother! 

Iladam 31. Yes, your Highness, she was my sister, and Gen- 
evieve is her orphan child. 

Em. Madam, can you prove this? 

31adam M. iMost fully, your Highness. Genevieve was born 
in Dresden three month -i after the Captain deserted lu}' sister. 

Em. And what was your sister's subsequent fate? 

JfadamJI. 8he left Dresden and returned to our native vil- 
lage, where after the lapse of a IVw years she died, and Genevieve 
became my adojted child. 

Em. Did 3-ou ever hear her say that she was married to Cap- 
tain Str.denheim? 

M<ulam M. She often said so, but few believed her 

Em. (To the Cuuxt. ) Have you, sir, any proof that a mar- 
riage was ever contracted between Count Stralenheim and Ade- 
laide Grayson? 

Count. I hr.ve your Highncs?, and hcie is tlie certificate. — 
(IJfinds 2)ffper.) 

Em. [Exdmininj paper.) I see this is perfectly genuine. 

Count. 'I'here are some half-obliterated words; your High- 
ness upon the back of it which please read. They Avere written 
by Count Stralenheiin on the morning of his death. 

Eyn. [liendiny ahmd.) "S!iould th3re be any living issue of 
the union, which this document legally cei'tifies, let my last sa- 
cred wish be respected, and my wealth aud title descend to it." 
— It shall be respected. 

[Bxisiness.) 

(Takes GiisExiEXE by the hand.) Genevieve, Countess Stral- 
enheim, your Sovereign salutes you. (Kisses her hand.) 
Madam M. What, Genevieve a Countess? 

(Husine-ts.) 



actvi.] disgeaced; or, the broken swoi;d. 48 

(Aside.) 'J'his then explains iny dreum. All uight long 1 saw 
her elnnbiug steps. 

Gen. And now by virtue of your sentence, my liege, and my 
lather's will, th s wealth is placed at my disposal:'. 

£vi. it is Countess! 

Gen. Then one-half of the estate I relinquish in favor of 
Co. one! Karl Rhonge, your Highness; he won that distinction 
by brave and honorable services. Oh, your Highness, revoke 
your decree of lianishnient, and let him still retain it. 

IJiu. And the other half? 

Gen. 1 beg your Highness, to transfer the remainder to him 
who was willing to bestow an honon.ble title upon me Mhen I 
had only a poo. but vhtuous name, to give in exchange, to his 
son, Albert Hlioi ge, I give, with the hand he so long coveted, 
all that I possess. 

(Business.) 

■ Count. (Aside.) And this is the maiden whom mj- worth- 
less friend, s:0 liaughtily despised? 

Em. Genevieve, you are a noble woman, and mav Heaven 
bless you, with a just reward. Colonel Khonge, 1 have no al- 
ternative but to follow the noble example of your-son's bride. I 
revoke my decree of banishment Serve me in the future as 
faithfully as in the past, and all will be forgotten and forgiven. 
(Colonel kneels.) 

Count. Gol bl3ss your Highness, for this generositjM 
( Tears. ) 

E'la. Rise Colonel. Let your gratitude and atonement ex- 
eniplity itself in deeds of virtue. (To Albert.) Albert, the 
post I offered you, is still vacant, and awaits your acceptance. 

Albert. May 1 prove myself worthy of it, your Highness. 

(Business.) 

Em. IMy children — (Join their hands) — If ever 30U are 
tempted to stiay from the paths of rectitude, may the warning 
voice of Genevieve, Countess of Stralenheim, call you back to 
duty and to honor. 

picture: "the emperor's blessing". 

grand alleciorical tableau: "america's welcome to ger- 

MANIA." , |/^ 

music: "star spangled banner." 
picture 



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